The Bahrain Center for Strategic, International and Energy Studies (Derasat), in association with the Konrad Adenauer Stiftung (KAS) from Germany, hosted a joint seminar titled “Gulf-Asia Cooperation: Prospects, Challenges and Implications for Europe” at Derasat’s headquarters in Awali on Wednesday, 20 November 2024.  This event brought together experts and scholars to explore the evolving dynamics between the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) and various Asian countries. 

The event featured an opening remark by Dr. Hamad Ebrahim Al-Abdulla, Executive Director of Derasat.  Participants included: Dr. Shigeto Kondo, Senior Researcher at the JIME Center of the Institute of Energy Economics, Japan; Mr. Philipp Dienstbier, Director of the Regional Programme Gulf States at KAS; Dr. Omar Ahmad Al-Ubaydli, Director of the Studies and Research Directorate at Derasat. The event was moderated by Ms. Marah Jamous, Project Manager at the Regional Programme Gulf States at KAS. Together, they shared insights on the future of Gulf-Asia cooperation and its strategic implications for Europe. 

The seminar emphasized the strengthening ties between the Arabian Gulf and Asia, which have expanded across economic, political, and cultural dimensions.  It addressed the implications of these relationships for Europe, particularly in light of recent global developments.  Participants engaged in in-depth discussions about how enhanced collaboration among these regions could address mutual challenges and opportunities. 

The seminar concluded with a recommendation to further enhance collaboration and dialogue among stakeholders in the Arabian Gulf, Asia, and Europe, highlighting the importance of building strategic partnerships to address shared challenges and foster mutual understanding.  Derasat remains committed to facilitating discussions that enhance regional cooperation and provide valuable insights for researchers.